PANJIM: Countering the narrative that they were behind the construction of a road at Caranzalem Beach in front of a new luxury resort, Revenue Minister Jennifer Monserrate organised a tree plantation drive in the same area, which is aimed at preventing any further construction on that stretch.
This was done on Monday morning along with the Panjim Mayor, councillors of the City of the Corporation of Panaji (CCP) and BJP Yuva Morcha (BJYM).
“I was disturbed to hear about the destruction of trees along the Caranzalem-Miramar road. No permission of any kind was given to carry out these illegal activities. I have issued an order to block vehicular access to this area immediately and have started the process of planting trees. I will ensure that the area is restored to its original condition, and that such incidents are not repeated in future,” said Jennifer, who is also BJP’s Taleigao MLA.
BJYM members said around 150 trees were planted during the drive.
It may be recalled that a small pathway leading to the beach was recently widened and its proximity to the hotel had upset the locals.
However, trying to set the record straight, Jennifer and Rohit clarified that no permissions had been given and that they were not aware how the pathway had widened but were not ensuring that this was stopped.
“We don’t know who widened the pathway. After we got to know about it we came here at 8 am to plant trees. We have to find out who carried out the widening and take action,” Jennifer said.
“No one has taken permission from CCP, Panchayat or any government department for widening the pathway. We have come here to correct that issue. We don’t want people misusing the area,” said Rohit.
There was also a clash between Jennifer, Rohit and Aam Aadmi Party leader Cecille Rodrigues.
To this, Jennifer denied the allegations levelled against her that trees were cut in a specific area.
She added that one should not go by hearsay and questioned the ‘double standards’ of those criticising her for planting trees.
Jennifer said Cecille is only known for screaming and not doing anything else, while Rohit criticised the antics of the opposition.
It may be recalled that former Panjim Mayors Uday Madikaikar, Surenda Furtado and Tony Rodrigues and others had earlier protested the road construction. Tony had even filed a police complaint on Saturday alleging encroachment of government property at Caranzalem and damage to the environment.
